That was the common thread in the tributes for Independent Media cricket writer and sports editor Michael Doman, who died in the early hours of Monday morning.

Doman, 57, had battled diabetes. He is survived by his wife Lorelle Bell and three sons - Luke and twins Jamie and Liam.

Doman had a strong journalistic pedigree with his father, Ted Doman, a revered former Cape Herald editor and strong supporter of non-racial sport during apartheid. This ethos and moral compass was ingrained in Doman.

“Michael made a big contribution to cricket, first as a player and later as a journalist,” said CSA chief executive Thabang Moroe. “He was a true professional whose writings were highly respected by both players and administrators.”

Cricket South Africa Board member Norman Arendse said: “These are very difficult times with one still reeling from the terrible blows in the past couple of weeks such as the death of Saait (Magiet) and Ralph Allen. They were all good guys, multi-talented sportsmen. They were all guys who were robbed of opportunities due to things not being equal during their playing days. Michael was a highly-talented cricketer who showed great potential from a young age.

“He was also a rare breed of journalist, one that you could trust implicitly.”

Michael Doman. Photo: ANA Photos

Cape Times editor Aneez Salie said: “Michael was one of the strongest of the strikers at Cape Herald in 1985 against Independent management’s threatened retrenchments, resolute and principled. Yet he was also a gentle and humble journalist, with a ready smile and a quiet confidence, befitting one who was also a consummate professional. We will miss him dearly. Hamba Kahle, Michael Doman.”

Independent Media sport group executive Jermaine Craig said: “Michael’s sudden passing comes as a shock to all of us at the Independent Media Sport department. He was the ultimate professional, strong and silent and with his own unique style of low key leadership. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family at this difficult time”.